Watch: Stunning aerial footage showcases Caithness hills in modern context
In a captivating new video titled “As Old as the Hills,” viewers are taken on a visual journey through the ancient rocks of Caithness’s most prominent hills in the far north. The video, created by filmmaker Selena S Kuzman, showcases stunning aerial images of the geological landscapes in Caithness and Orkney, offering a glimpse into millions of years of geological processes that have shaped the land.
One of the highlights of the video is the exploration of the tors on top of Smean near Braemore, known to be the oldest rock surfaces in the British Isles. Other iconic landmarks such as Morven and Scaraben also play a significant role in connecting viewers to the lost landscapes of the past.
The story of these ancient rocks was developed by Edinburgh-based geologist Dr. Adrian Hall, who wanted to emphasize the vast scales of deep geological time. Assisting him on this endeavor are Katy Firth from Orkney and Mara Gibb from Caithness, who help to unravel the mysteries of the land’s formation over millennia.
Throughout the journey, viewers are treated to timelines that span the length of an entire A9 journey from Helmsdale to Land’s End, extending across both land and sea to places as distant as Timbuktu. The exploration culminates in Orkney’s red sandstone cathedral of St Magnus, where the rising height of the cathedral walls serves as a poignant reminder of the immense passage of geological time.
As viewers traverse the landscapes of Caithness and Orkney, they discover the remnants of ancient mountains and geological formations that have been shaped by millennia of natural forces. The film also delves into the various methods of dating ancient rock surfaces, shedding light on the rich geological history of the region.
From the debris of Ice Age glaciers on Shapinsay to the ever-changing landscape of Dunnet Bay in Caithness, viewers are presented with a tapestry of natural wonders that reflect the deep-time processes at play. The film serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. Adrian Hall and his dedication to understanding the geology and landscapes of northern Scotland.
“As Old as the Hills” holds a special significance as it was released in honor of the upcoming 300th anniversary of the birth of James Hutton, the East Lothian geologist who revolutionized our understanding of geological time. By making this film freely available for community screenings, the creators hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the ancient rocks and landscapes that have shaped the world around us.